Variety – and pork loin – is the spice of life for Bob Plathe

There’s no such thing as a “typical” day for Latham® dealer Bob Plathe, and that’s exactly how he likes it.

“All my jobs keep me very busy, but I like it that way,” he says. “It keeps me on my toes.”

Bob works full-time at Bomgaars in Algona, Iowa, and has farmed with his son, Bobby, for more than a decade. His wife, Carol, works part-time at the Algona library. They also have a daughter, Emma. The Plathes raise corn and soybeans, and Bob is proud to be a fourth-generation Iowa farmer. In fact, his family was honored at the Iowa State Fair in 2017 with a Century Farm Award from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.

“When I started farming in 1980, I bought Latham soybeans from a dealer,” says Bob. “I was always impressed with Latham products. They had great results then and still do to this day.”

Bob says he got to know Don Latham while serving on the Iowa Soybean Board, so that’s what first sparked his interest. After purchasing products for years, he decided to take on a Latham dealership about seven years ago.

“When you work with the Latham’s, you just feel like they are your neighbors,” he says. “You don’t find many companies where the president gives tours and explains what the products are all about.”

In addition to farming and working in agriculture, Bob finds time to serve on industry boards and stays active in his community. He served on the Iowa Soybean Association board for nine years. He also has been a leader in the Knights of Columbus. He served on the Extension council and the Farm Service Agency Committee, as well.

The Plathes enjoy watching Cyclone sporting events and try to make it to Jack Trice Stadium at least once every fall. Bob is also a fan of the Minnesota Twins and the Minnesota Vikings.

After a long day in the field, one of Bob’s favorite meals is marinated pork loin. He’s sharing the recipe with us here.